From: Pam Norman <pam_norman@..........>

Friends,

Judy has asked if I would let everyone know that she set her beloved
Sammy free today.  As some of you may know, his condition had worsened
steadily since trying the Feldene & in the last number of days, it
became clear to Judy that this time there would be no reprieve.  It was
a long long road, battling CRF & cancer, & his little body was just not
strong enough to continue, even though his heart & soul would have done
so for Judy.

Sammy was very special to Judy.  We all love all of our kitties but so
often there is one set apart, with whom we share a special bond,
something unique that may only happen once or twice perhaps..  This was
so with Sammy & Judy.  On their way along this road that only goes one
way, they smelled all the roses along the way & cherished every shared
moment.

Today Sammy's spirit was set free.  Much as an eagle who has been
injured & then nursed back to health is set free by his caregiver. As
the door to his cage is opened, the eagle takes flight & soars to the
heavens. Perhaps in an instant before he flies, he may pause to look
back & bid a silent farewell to the one who gave him life.  So Sammy is
free tonight.  Like Ambrose he has gone on ahead. But the bond between
them is such that it will never be broken.  As with Ambrose & me, they
will meet again, sometime, somewhere. Lives such as these will never be
apart.  They will touch, intertwine, & come together again.  Sammy is
not gone.  He is just ahead.

Pam

Sammy can be seen at:

http://www.ameritech.net/users/critterz/Theboyz.htm

Judy,

It feels like you're alone but you're not really. Sammy
will no longer be in that soft furry body that you love
so much to hold, but he will still be with you. In your
heart & soul, yes, but also around you.  You know that, I
think.  You may not feel him at first because of the
intensity of your emotions but he'll be there
nevertheless.

I'm with you. I've been where you are & I know how your
heart is breaking.  But just hold on to the knowledge
that this is your gift of love to him, to free his
beautiful living spirit from the body that can't go on.
Think of a bird that has been nursed back to health after
perhaps suffering an incapacitating injury. It's time for
the bird to go home & the caregiver opens the cage & the
bird soars up into the freedom of the skies.  That is
Sammy's spirit.  Some have even seen it - seen the spirit
freed from the little body that it can no longer use.

It is we who are left behind who suffer, surrounded by
all that is familiar & that reminds us of their leaving.
But you're not alone. He'll be with you.  This will be
the beginning of a different part of both your journeys
but the closeness that you shared indicates that you have
always touched each other through time & will again,
countless times.

Bless you.

Pam

I'm sorry to hear that Judy.  Ken.

Judy, I'm very sorry - you know I stay up late at night - if you need
someone to talk to, or cry into the phone :(( - I'm here.  I'll probably
get home from work after 9:30 or so.  Did you help him to the Bridge I assume?

Leah

I am sorry!!!!  Just remember he is happier now playing with Sneekers and
Maui!!!!

Judy,

I'm so sorry. Keep reading that beautiful poem you sent me. It is so true. He
is not suffering anymore (and he waited until you were as ready as you will
ever be to let him go).
He loves you forever too.

He's in a happy place now Judy, remember that.

Robin

Hi, Judy...

I'm so sorry you had to let Sammy go, but it was best considering
the suffering. It didn't sound like there was anything you could do.

Hug all your kitties close tonight. A face full of fur is the best
tissue for tears.

Peace,

Jim

Dear Judy,

I'm so sorry to here about the passing of your sweet, sweet boy, Sammy.

Something my vet said to me when my Coco passed, was that we have been
blessed to have known this special little soul, and he too for being
with us. And I believe that, I cannot think of a time, were he does
not fit into my life, and he's been gone seen 96.

I know how hard this time is, and I know how much you loved Sammy,
and I know he loved you too.  There is that connection, which only
us kitty's lovers knows.

Time takes the edge off, but we never forget,

My thoughts and prayers are with you,

Cynthia, Taffy, Samuel
Burning candle {i~}

Judy, I'm so sorry to hear of the loss of sweet Sammy.  You two
have been thru so much together, have fought so many battles.
I know it must have been very hard for you, I wish I had your
strength :(  Please know that we are thinking of you and hoping
that sadness will soon be replaced by only happy memories of
your dear kitty.

Maureen, Ruxie, Biskie, Sunny, Puffie & Angel Binnie

Hi Judy,

I just read about Sammy on the CRF list.  I'm so, so sorry that you had
to have him PTS.  I just looked at his picture on your web site--love
his little face.  Take care of yourself and hang in there.

Lee

Pam please tell Judy how sorry I am.  My heart goes out to her, I just wish
I could say something to make her feel better!  Give her my love.

To all of you on both lists:  VIN has a petloss.com and if you write to
PCFcanary@vin.com she will put any furbabies who go to the " Bridge" on the
bridge list for the Monday candle ceremony.  I  would like to have
permission to add Sammy to it, as well as Bonnie.  If they are on the list,
then many people can light a candle for them on Monday during the ceremony.
I light a candle for all those who I know have died, and a candle for those
like my Corkie who are on the special needs list.  You can ask for your
furbaby to be on the special needs list and they will do it. That way anyone
who wants can light a candle for them as  well.

Love Heidi

Pam,
Thank you for letting us know what's going on with Judy & Sammy
I was wondering about sweetie Sammy how he's doing.
Judy,
I'm sure that's was really hard thing you've done. But it could help Sammy
free from pain that never getting easier.
Like all other kitties gone before him they are all free from everything.
We can't just see their physical bodies but spirits will stay with us all
time.
My heart goes with you.
Judy, if we can do anything let us know.
I saw picture of Sammy, made me cry.......

Masayo & Channie angel & Rosie

Oh Judy!  I just had a good cry reading your post.  I'm so sorry
about beautiful Sammy.  He loves you and you're so lucky to have
helped him pass peacefully, with the one he loved there with him.
You loved him so much - wanting nothing more than to do anything you
could to try and help him.  He knew that.

I had such a similar experience with Lizzy, my sweet precious love,
who also had CRF...they loved us soooo much they didn't want to go
any more than we wanted them to.  They tried their little hearts out
to stay and love us as long as they absolutely could...and so did we.
 

That kind of love and connection doesn't happen but maybe once in a
lifetime...and some people *never* experience it.  We're pretty darn
lucky to have it.  It's an always and forever thing that has no end.
He'll always be with you.  What a *gift*...  Dont punish yourself
dear one, for that kind of dedicated love.

I just wanted to give Judy a big hug.

Warmly,
Becky

Dear Judy,

I am so sorry about Sammy. He did so well for so long with all his health
problems. You did a great job. I don't think any human being could do more
for a kitty than you did. I'm sure he realized that.

I looked at your web page. Sammy looks such a beautiful kitty. His colouring
is really special. May he rest peacefully now- no more pain for him.

I wish you well. It's a really difficult time for you.  Even though you knew
this was best for the little guy, it's still very hard.
 

Jean Martin, Angel Mandy, and road warriors Sparky and Cindy- the cross
Canada Cats

Judy,

I am so sorry that you have lost Sammy.  All of your boys were so sweet
and so special, and they have to have known how special they were to
you.  Please accept my deepest thoughts of sympathy for you at this
difficult time.  Try to remember that Sammy is at rest, no longer
suffering and no longer in pain.

Leonor
Fred
Renata

Dear Judy,
    I am so sorry to read of the passing of your Sammy, I to lost my
special little man Toby, 4 weeks ago last night, so I know the pain you
are going through.
   Toby was also one of three I have had the privilege to share a very
special bond with, I don't think we set out to do that, it just happens,
I used to feel guilty about the other furby's, until I realized I still
loved them, but that what Toby and I had was unique and somehow very
special, from Pam's email you felt the same for your beautiful Sammy.
   By the photos, you seem to have a thing for redhead's, I  have 2
redhead's, and an assortment, 12 in all, one of those has FIV, which is
what Toby had.
  I hope you got to say goodbye to your baby, that is something I was
denied as Toby was in a semi coma for the last 2 days, and didn't know
anyone, which has made it all the harder for me.
   Perhaps they are both up there playing together in the sunshine,
chasing butterflies, climbing trees and doing all the things that were
denied them because of their illnesses, but I think that the best part
is they are now free of pain.
Kindest Regards.
Dorothy, Brat,and the gang and the spirit of my beautiful wee man Toby
angel.

Dear Judy, I am so sorry to hear of Sammy's passing, he is free now from
pain, I know this is a tough time for you now as it was for me with Midnight
but the two of them are in a special place where no harm can hurt them again,
their bodies free from this terrrible disease-let the tears flow, and I am
here to help you along the way, it has been a month for me, I can be here to
help you with each "stage" you will go through,

Hugs,
Donna and Angel Midnight

Oh Judy I just got the email from CRF.  I have tears pouring down my face
and can hardly see to type.  I'm so, so sorry.  I know how much you love
Sammy.  I know this was the hardest decision you've ever had to make in your
life.  He's a very special kitty to have found you and your deep love and
devotion for him.  My pain for you is deep as is my sympathy and
understanding of how you feel.  I don't know why poor Sammy had to go
through what he did.  It's very unfair.  He was innocent.  I wish I could be
there in person for you, to help ease your pain and tears.  You did the
right thing, no matter how hard it was to let him go.  Please know you are
always in my thoughts and prayers.  I know how hard this battle has been for
you.  You've gone through a lot and you've done all you could for him.  Take
heart dear Judy in knowing that in his pain and suffering you have helped
numerous others in their battle with CRF.  I have learned so much from you.
If not for you and your wisdom I don't think that I'd still have my Charlie
here today.  You are a cherished friend that I value.

If you need anything at all, please let me know.  I'm good at listening.  I
am extending my cyber tissue to you to dab away your endless flow of tears.
I wish there was something I could do to help ease your pain.  I feel bad
that I've been so wrapped up in my own world of chaos to not have contacted
you more frequently over the last month.  I'm sending big hugs and a dry
shoulder to cry on plus lots of prayers.

Love and purrs,

Trish

I am so very sorry for your loss.  You made a very difficult decision, but
one of pure love.  I know you have a hole in your heart right now, but you
have many wonderful memories in which to fill it.  Sammy is playing with
all his friends at the Bridge, and one day when you are reunited, he will
have many stories to share with you.  He will never really be far away, as
his spirit will always be near.
Take care,
Susan & Oscar >^,,^<

Please don't blame yourself for Sammy's passing.  The grief alone is enough
to deal with.

I found out recently how hard it can be to make decisions for our babies
when they have to be made fast.  My kitten, Maggie, almost died from an
anesthesia reaction.  Talk about panic!!!

Remember that Sammy is not in pain anymore and that he is no longer
sick.  Often I think of all our kids at the Bridge (my own went in August 4
years ago) playing together and sitting around talking about us the same
way we so love talking about them.

Sammy knew and knows how much you love him.  And I don't believe that love
ever dies.  I think if he could look at you and talk to you right now he's
probably say "hey mom, you did the best you could".

Just as an aside, I've got my own Sammy.  He's only 3 and so far his only
illness has been a skin allergy.  I think I'll ask my Sammy to say a
special prayer for yours.

Take gentle care,
Joan

My beautiful boys (and girl):
http://www.communities-net.com/Joan
 

"Hear and Bless thy beasts and singing birds
and guard with tenderness small things that have no words."

Judy,

I understand so well the pain you feel.  I would love to hear more about
Sammy's garden as you plant it.

Sharing your grief,

Kelly

Dear Judy,

It deeply sadden me to read of Sammy passing.  I know how you feel, 16 years ago
I lost two of my cats (and best friends) within 24 hour.  I was numb for weeks.
I still miss them, but I also know that just feeling for them is important.  I
am glad I can feel, and I do recognize that being a person like that is
important.    Their loss has also compelled me to search even harder for a
treatment for their diseases, and hopefully someday a cure.

So don't get down on yourself, I have done things which is retrospect I wouldn't
do again, but I did the best things I could based on the knowledge available at
the time.  So I am will always remember all the good times, and I cherish those,
and I know their spirits are out there pulling for me.

Best wishes and my sincerest sympathy,

Paul

Hi Judy.

I have not been able to get to my mail until today and am very sorry to know
that you have lost Sammy.  It is evident from your posts that he was much
loved and treasured and our hearts go out to you as you struggle through
your loss.  You did your best by him and in part of your message I think you
are being too hard on yourself.  We all do our best with what we know at the
time and you cannot be faulted for that.  Heal well and soon.

Rad Hunt and Purr Box
Monrovia, CA

Hi Judy,

I was sorry to hear about your cat Sammy.  I know just how you feel when
you loose a pet so dear to you. I hope with time you will remember all
the good times and memories you had with him and not think so much of
your lose. Take care and again I'm sorry for your lose

Love always,
Ron & Cathy

Judy,

My heart breaks to read of your losing little Sammy.  I'm so very
sorry.  Please know that I've already sent many prayers asking for you
to be given tremendous strength during these unbearable times.  I know
how your heart is aching; mine is aching for you.  If you ever need to
talk, I'm here.

Your friend,
Sherry Gleason
Plano, Tx.

 Judy,

Please don't feel guilty, you did everything you could to help and love Sammy.
Sammy will always be special, there will never be another Sammy. You are so
blessed to have found each other. So fortunate to have shared your lives.
Never think that you were not the best Mom, friend, caretaker. Grieve
because you loved so deeply, one day everything wonderful about your
friend will be your strongest memories.

Take care, Judy and Saki and Koko

Visit with Saki-San and Koko-Puss at:
http://photos.yahoo.com/bc/judeast?d&.flabel=fld3&.src=ph

I am so sorry for your loss... what beautiful words you wrote about your last
moments together.  Sammy was indeed a beautiful soul and his last touch to
your face was his signal of his great love for you.

He loves you still... and you mean as much to him as he does to you.

Love and prayers to you both,
Carol, Angel Nink, Angel Phoenix, Annie and BC

Judy

I was so sorry to hear of Sammy's passing.  I wish all kitties could be so
well loved.

Take care,

MJ and the herd
"Where you used to be, there is a hole in the world, which I find myself
constantly walking around in the daytime, and falling in at night. I miss you like hell."
-- Edna St. Vincent Millay
www.primenet.com/~pjs

Sue and I want to offer our condolences on Sammy's passing.

Judy, I'm sorry. You know, I woke up in the middle of the night one night at
my mom's and I knew. There was no clock in the room, so I looked at my watch
and noticed it had stopped. And I just knew. It had only stopped like
seconds before I looked at it. It was as if even tho he didn't know me he
was letting me know. Kashmir did that once. Did I ever tell you about her
angel cat? The Kashmir double?
    How are you? Are you managing ok? I don't imagine you are :( Are you
able to talk about him?
    Judy, do you believe in reincarnation? I do, tho lots of people don't, I
know. I think it makes a big difference in how we form our relationships. I
think that because you and Sammy had such a special bond that you must've
known him before, maybe in this life of yours, maybe in another, and that
he'll be back again someday. I know that doesn't help now tho. I like to
think that reincarnation gives us another chance, even if we do things right
the first time, it gives us another chance to love more deeply, more
strongly and to feel that presence again. I know how much you're hurting,
and if there were any way to take away that pain from you I would. Maybe
it'll help to know that he'll never leave you, not really, not for good.
    There isn't much I can say that will make you feel better, but I'd sure
like to try. If you can talk about it, let me know. If you can't, that's ok
too. I'll listen even to what you don't say.
    Have you started work on his memorial? When Kashmir goes I plan to take
her ashes to my mom's cause that's where I know is a permanent place.
    Do you need anything?
    You know, I've been trying to think so hard of what to say that will
help but I'm not getting very far. But I do want you to know that I'm
grieving too. You're not alone. You and Sammy are in my thoughts constantly.
And whatever you need, however I can help, I'm here. You and Sammy are the
most special cat-human pair I've ever known, and it hurts me too.
((((((((((Love and hugs))))))))))
Kath

Catsnstuff: http://www.geocities.com/mykashmir/
BC SPCA North Cariboo Branch: http://www.pgweb.com/~spca/

Judy, I am so touched by your message.  I realize that there are many people
in this world that love their animals as family.  I have a difficult time
losing my pets in the past and know that it doesn't get any easier the
longer they are with me.  I have two cats and one dog and although they have
been through a number to things, nothing as major as Sammy.  I believe that
you did the right thing helping him to pass.  He deserved to be at peace and
it was the loving move to make.  It sounds like to memorial garden will be
great!  Please keep in touch.  Love from all of us to you and yours.
Shirley

Oh, Judy .... I'm so sorry about your Sammy.
I know its been a real tough time for you, but you did a wonderful thing for
Sammy and yourself by working up a memorial garden.   It is a very nice
tribute to the love you shared.   When I lose a special one I always have
such an empty feeling inside.  Not until Gumby did I realize what that
emptiness was.

We shared so much through his illness that we almost became as one.   I
could just feel what he was thinking and I'm sure he could me too.  I gave
all of myself over to him and our spirits combined.    When he died he took
that part of me that I freely gave to him and that was the void that could
not be filled and only time lessened its pain.    But I feel that he also
gave a good part of himself to me....in the trust and love and patience in
all the pilling, fluids etc he had to live through.....that part of him is
deep in my heart and sometimes I can feel it so powerfully.

You and Sammy are in my prayers as I light my candles tonight....you for a
gentle healing and Sammy for a gentle journey.......

Noreen

Oh Judy,

I am so sorry to learn about Sammy. He was a
beautiful, brave kitty.

May your Guardian Angels wrap their wings around you
and give you strength and comfort to help you heal.

Judy, Sammy's Memorial Garden is lovely and it will
be breath taking this Spring.  Gardening is very
healing and I'm sure Sammy is right there helping you
nuture each little each plant. I'm sure he is smiling.
His bright eyes in the photo are stunning and he looks
so charming.  His memorial stone is just beautiful.
Thank you for sharing Sammy's photos with us. They
are sad, but he was so brave and strong. When you
update the garden photos, please let me know.

I know your new boyz will snuggle and purr and help
you too.

Love,
Colleen, Dijon and Ricky

Judy,

I went to your Web site and looked at your memorial to Sammy.  It is
going to be so beautiful.  I also looked at the last photos of Sammy--I
took photos of Ernie right before he passed away and Sammy's photos
reminded me so much of those.  I wept for myself and for you.  It's so
hard to let go.

Susan